Easter services to live stream while in isolation: From the Vatican to Joel Osteen's star-studded event
With social distancing being practiced across the world, everyone's Easter plans have taken a hit. Luckily, thanks to social media, we have many solutions at our disposal. Thanks to social media, there are a number of Easter services that are being live streamed. While it may be an unusual way of spending Easter, it is the best way, given that the number of coronavirus cases is increasing worldwide. Below are some of the services that you can live stream and enjoy.
Roman Catholic Church
It was announced that Pope Francis will live stream the Sunday Service on their YouTube channel. The news was shared on Twitter and promoted the hashtag, "Pray Together". Many people applauded this initiative as they thought in times like this, coming together as one is what will help make things better.
Joel Osteen and Mariah Carey
Joel Osteen's Houston megachurch, Lakewood Church, is allowing people to enjoy Easter throughout the day as their services will be live-streamed the entire day. If you want to join the celebrities while doing your Easter service, the time is 8 pm EST. Osteen will be joined by singer Mariah Carey and filmmaker Tyler Perry.
Osteen has been keeping people motivated by sharing motivational words on his social media and there is no doubt that the service will also have him bringing his positive energy. In a time like this, it might just be what people need.
Presbyterian Church USA (PCUSA)
The Presbyterian Church USA, the largest Presbyterian denomination in the US, has already shared 37 minutes service that everyone can watch. "In this unprecedented time of crisis and social distancing, we remain the Church together, united in the risen Christ. The Presbyterian Church (USA) invites you to view and share this 37-minute, standalone Easter worship service so that we might come together in the virtual community on this holiest of days," read their statement.
Elevation Church
Elevation Church is a Protestant megachurch based in Charlotte, North Carolina, and they will also be live streaming their service on Facebook, YouTube and other platforms. There will be a number of services taking place online that will air at 9.30 am, 11.30 am, 2 pm, 5 pm, 8 pm and 10 pm EST, as reported by CNN.
The United Methodist Church
The United Methodist Church is not doing a main live stream but they have come out with a list that notes UMC churches around the Philippines and the US that will be conducting live streams. "As congregations cancel on-site worship and individuals choose to forego large gatherings to help slow the spread of coronavirus, you can still worship in your home via online worship services," they wrote.
"The best way to find an online worship service near you is to visit our Find-A-Church page which will show you United Methodist congregations in your community. Check out their websites to find any online worship opportunities available."
While the Sunday service may not be the same as it is going to a church, under the given circumstances, people and the church are trying to make sure that the Easter service is not hindered.